Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title INTRODUCTION TO ASTROPHYSICS
Code PHYS155
Coordinator Dr S Habergham
Physics
S.Habergham@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2022-23 Level 4 FHEQ Second Semester 7.5

Aims

To provide students with a broad introduction to astronomy and the constituents of the Universe .

To explain how observations support our understanding of stars, galaxies, and the Universe as a whole.

To introduce students to the methods by which astronomers measure the brightness, properties characteristic properties, and distance of astronomical objects.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) A basic knowledge of the structure and constituents of the Universe ranging in scale from the Solar System to clusters of galaxies

(LO2) Ability to outline the methods which astronomers employ to gather and analyse data

(LO3) Understanding of the techniques of measurement of brightness and distance of astronomical objects

(LO4) Knowledge of the current cosmological model and the evidence supporting it

(S1) Problem solving skills

(S2) Communication skills

(S3) IT skills


Syllabus

 

Basic concepts: The Earth in space, the Solar System.

Observing: Telescopes, introduction to imaging and spectroscopy.

Measurement of brightness and distance: Magnitude system, HertzprungHertzsprung-Russell diagram, evolution of stars

Galaxies and cosmology: types of galaxy, the distance ladder, the evolution of the uUniverse

Issues in Contemporary Astronomy: the Big Bang and the fate of the Universe; black holes; the missing mass problem; the search for extra solar planets;


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Synchronous Live on campus lectures
Description: Core Lecture
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: 6 x 2h/week

Teaching Method 2 - Group Learning
Description: Group Learning
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: 6 x 2h/week

Teaching Method 3 - Group Learning
Description: Group Learning
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: 6 x 2h/week

Learning materials (notes/slides/videos/exercises etc) will be made available to students through the VLE.


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 12

        12

24
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 51
TOTAL HOURS 75

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Unseen, managed by SAS, time-controlled online examination    70       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Weekly summative assessments Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :S2 W6-11    30       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.